Brace yourself for "Blanket Rage." Apparently unconcerned about the threat of unhinged, shivering people, American Airlines plans to charge coach passengers $8 for a blanket on domestic flights lasting more than two hours (and eliminate blankets for shorter flights). Though the airline says it'll throw in an inflatable neck pillow, reaction from the blogosphere has been fast, furious and rather chilly. A sampling, free of charge:
My Gloss
"Hmm…we wonder if they’ll start cranking the air-conditioning on their planes [in the near future] too…"
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
Jaunted
"On domestic flights lasting two hours or less, blankets will be totally eliminated. Under the new policy, passengers on those flights will be warmed by sunbeams, glitter, and the glowing thought of puppy kisses."
Yahoo
"Until [Irish carrier] Ryanair actually goes through with threats to install pay toilets on its planes, it looks like we've just about hit rock bottom on all these extra fees."
The Consumerist
"Relax: you can't shiver to death in under 2 hours, and by then you'll be at your destination. Or, okay, [you'll still be] on the runway...raiding your carry-on for snacks. You might want to bring a light jacket."
Marketplace
"Good afternoon, everybody, this is your captain speaking...In a few minutes we'll be cutting off the supply of oxygen in the economy cabin. Additional oxygen can be purchased for a nickel per minute — just slip your coins into the slot in the armrest."
Chicago Tribune
"Getting that sweaty business traveler to stop napping in your personal space? That'll be extra."
Gadling
"I guess the time has come for us all to bring our own Snuggie?"
-
5 cracking cartoons about the new Cracker Barrel logoCartoons Artists take on MAGA designs, real issues, and more
-
Should you downsize for retirement? Here's what to consider.The Explainer Moving to a smaller place may seem easier, but there are also some real benefits to staying put
-
What to do if you want to move but don't want to give up your low mortgage ratethe explainer 30-year mortgage rates are currently averaging 7% — and homeowners who secured rates closer to 3% during the pandemic are reluctant to sell their homes
